What is the difference between AWD and 4WD?

Here are the criteria that Edmunds uses to determine if a vehicle is 4WD (four-wheel drive) or AWD (all-wheel drive). Please note that the names some manufacturers use are marketing terms and do not take into account actual functionality.

4WD — Part-Time

Four wheels driven or Two wheels driven

Requires driver input to activate

Has transfer case with 2-speed capability

Very good on tough terrain or off-roading.

Not meant to be driven in 4WD (4WD-Hi or 4WD-low) on high-traction surfaces (dry pavement) or severe damage will occur (because vehicle does not have a center differential to allow different speeds between front and rear axles)

For high-traction surfaces (dry pavement) the 2WD mode must be used

4WD — On-Demand

Not part-time or AWD but a combination of both types of functionality

Generally will allow driver to choose several different 4WD modes, including 2WD

Driver should be able to choose an "AWD" mode

Center Differential: Manual or Viscous

4WD — Full-Time

Also called Permanent 4WD

Four wheels driven

Not part-time or AWD but a combination of both types of functionality

Generally will allow driver to choose only either 4WD Hi or 4WD Lo modes

2WD is not available

Center Differential: Manual or Viscous

4WD system that can be used on all surfaces (addition of a differential in the transfer case allows for the Full-Time 4WD)